§ Mr. McMasterTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security (1) when the new Benefits Agency premises in Johnstone town centre are scheduled to open; where these will be located; how many staff will be transferred to this location; from where they will be transferred; how many additional jobs will be created at what grade; what new or enhanced services will be available to clients from these new premises; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what is the total contract value of the new Benefits Agency office in Paisley; when he expects the office to be operational; when he expects the office to be officially opened; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BurtThe opening of new Benefits Agency offices in Johnstone and Paisley is a matter for Mr. Michael Bichard, the chief executive of the Benefits Agency. He will write to the hon. Member.
Letter from Michael Bichard to Mr. Gordon McMaster, dated 23 June 1994:
The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your recent Parliamentary Questions about the new Benefits Agency offices in Johnstone and Paisley.Benefits Agency Estates, in liaison with Property Holdings, are negotiating the acquisition of a lease for Unit 5, William Street, Johnstone which on present plans is scheduled to open as a caller service point by the beginning of 1995.The six staff currently employed in Johnstone will transfer from Floors Street to the new premises. No additional jobs will be created nor will any be lost.The move to the main shopping area will mean the new office is more accessible to our customers and will provide an improved service for all members of the public in and around Johnstone.The total contract value of the new Benefits Agency premises in Paisley is approximately £5.2 million.It is expected that the new office will be operational in June 1995 with the official opening within 2 months thereafter. Plans for the official opening have yet to be finalised.The Renfrew District Manager, Colin Wright, will be happy to provide you with any further details should you require them.I hope you find my reply helpful.